In February 2013, eight Kodo members will make a guest appearance in ballet performances of “Kaguyahime” held by France’s leading opera and ballet ensemble, Opéra national de Paris. Kodo will make history as the first taiko ensemble to perform at the world’s highest-ranked theater and home of the Paris Opera, the celebrated Palais Garnier. “Kaguyahime” is a legendary ballet production that fuses music by composer Maki Ishii with choreography by Jiří Kylián. Since it was first performed in 1988, this popular production has been performed in various countries around the world. The last performances in Paris were held three years ago when Kodo took part in “Kaguyahime” with the Paris Opera Ballet at Opéra Bastille from June to July in 2010. Link

Amsterdam’s first Japanese ramen shop has opened in Chinese supermarket Toko Dun Yong. Until December 18, the pop-up concept will serve bowls of noodles in a rich broth. Eat Amsterdam spoke to Fow Pyng Hu, the man behind the concept, shortly after the opening. Fow Pyng Hu came up with the idea for a ramen shop….LINK